Obituary of Belen Rodriguez
Belen Rodriguez, age 92, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2026. She was one of eight children born to the late Macario and Guadalupe (Cruz) Vazquez on August 10, 1933, in Dallas Texas,. She lived a long and meaningful life centered on love, family, and simple joys that brought beauty to those around her.
A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Belen’s greatest pride was her family. She found her happiest moments surrounded by those she loved most. She had a deep love for dancing and could often be found moving to music with joy in her heart. She expressed her love through cooking and preparing meals that brought everyone together around the table. Belen also found peace in nature, tending to her garden, and listening to the sweet songs of birds, especially canaries. Her warmth, strength, and nurturing spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.
To honor and celebrate Belen’s colorful life, guests are encouraged to wear bright colors to her visitation and funeral instead of traditional black attire.
Belen is survived by her loving daughter, Graciela Madrigal; her son, Carlos Zavala; her twelve treasured grandchildren, Alejandro Zavala, Jorge Madrigal, Jaime Zavala, Roman Madrigal, Carlos Zavala, Lauro Zavala, Lilliana Zavala, Yesenia Tirado, Guadalupe Zavala, Kevin Zavala, Crystal Madrigal, Daisy Zavala; her sister Sara Vazquez; and her sixteen great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Aurelio Zavala; her parents, Macario and Guadalupe Vazquez; her siblings; and her cherished son, Jaime Zavala.
Belen’s legacy of love, devotion, and quiet strength will continue through the generations she leaves behind. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Visitation for Belen Rodriguez will be held on Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m., at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd. Joliet, IL. Family and friends will meet on Friday, March 13, 2026, at St. John the Baptist, 404 N Hickory St., Joliet, IL, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Cremation rites will be accorded following services, and interment will be private.
For more information, please call 815-741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute page at www.fredcdames.com where you may share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.
